After hosting the World Cup, it’s fair to say the United States of America and its various sporting products became fascinating to fans of European football. In the end, it turned out to be a World Cup to forget for Portugal, but many supporters who watched clashes against Congo and Croatia did still enjoy the all-round experience.
After all, how they showcase sport in America is completely different to how various pastimes are put on in Portugal, particularly football. Some would argue it all feels plastic, while others will say they do it right in the US. For people who hold the latter view, getting over there to watch NBA games, chant in MLB arenas, and bet on NCAAF clashes in person appeals. Sure, some Portuguese fans were able to watch ice hockey games and UFC fights during their time in the country, but plenty didn't.
So, if you’re one of the many Portuguese fans considering booking a trip to America to watch some of the nation’s beloved sporting products, below are some key reasons it’s an idea worth pursuing.
It’s a completely different package
As briefly highlighted, American sport probably isn’t for everyone in Europe. It features bright lights, kiss cams, the occasional cheesy chant, and it almost feels a tad superficial. However, if you’re able to look past that and enjoy the sporting product on the field for what it is, then it’s an enjoyable and totally unique sporting experience to savour. Whether you opt for an MLB clash or an NFL game, it’ll be nothing like the beautiful game. Still, for football fans with a passion for all sports, it’s a product worth ticking off the list due to the spectacle that is served up. Simply put, there isn’t anything quite like it in Europe.
The atmosphere is amazing
Portuguese fans are capable of creating a cauldron of noise in the biggest of games. The same applies at college football games and NFL clashes, with fans chanting passionately throughout matches and even occasionally coming to blows in the stands. Throw in pre-game tailgating parties, marching bands, cheerleaders and their routines, and halftime entertainment shows, and the overall atmosphere on offer during American sporting events is mightily impressive.
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Tactics are incredibly detailed
In the same way Jorge Jesus has made a few tactical tweaks to the current Portugal side, NFL coaching and NBA strategies vary massively. It might take you a while to grasp play-calling and learn about specific positions on the field, but it’s always intriguing given the detailed tactical elements associated with sports like American football, basketball and ice hockey.
Basketball’s end-to-end action is similar to football
While nobody will expect you to leave the US and state your desire to turn your back on football, there are some sports that you could fall in love with. While the NFL’s stop-start nature might not appeal to all football fans or those used to watching a flowing sport, alternative options like basketball and ice hockey could well do. In basketball, in particular, games tend to contain an end-to-end offering that mirrors the action we see on the football pitch. With three-pointers being scored and slam dunks providing even more entertainment, basketball is probably a good place to start when it comes to sampling American sport.
Devour seriously tasty grub
Alongside soaking up a unique atmosphere and learning about a sport’s tactical side, Portuguese fans can also try dirty burgers, chicken wings and craft beer during games. While it might not beat your usual bifana or couratos, America does sports grub extremely well.
